[gatorbill1]

Originally Posted by npwalters

My experience, yours may be different. You will pay a significant transaction fee at most banks if you ask for a small amount of Euros (say $50 worth). The transaction fee is waived if you order a larger amount. I think it was $250 at Regions but it may have been a little less. You will not get the full exchange rate at most banks. They take a small percentage for the hassle of providing the service.

I paid 2 or 3 euros for each transaction every time I used my major credit card at a ATM in Portugal - including bank ATMs.

If you can find a person with a small amount they want to sell that is the way to go. Like you, I wanted some actual cash (Euros) for tips to tour guides, bus drivers, etc.

BTW, the person trying to sell a small amount of Euros back to a bank will pay a hefty transaction fee so it is a benefit to both parties if you can do it.

Not at Bank of America if you are a good client.